- I participated in a Service Learning Project at Robert H. Goddard Middle School in February 2018 with some of my classmates. We educated students on proper oral hygiene and nutritional guidance. We focused on creating awareness in the amount of sugar within popular soft drinks. I created props as visual aids. A powerpoint presentation was collaboratively made to discuss this important topic. My responsibility during the presentation was to discuss oral hygiene care while under going orthodontic treatment with the students. I provided information on proper flossing technique using super floss, ortho piks or floss threaders, effective plaque removal with Charter’s toothbrushing method and using an anti-cavity rinse.
Below you will find a research paper collaboratively written detailing why we choose our target population, our assessment and program planning.
Service Learning Project Paper (Wendy Rodriguez) Final
In addition, you will find below a detailed lesson plan and divided responsibilities among all five members of our group.
- In February 2018 seniors in the Dental Hygiene graduating class were invited to participate in an event called “Giving Kids a Smile”. The event took place in Ronald Edmunds Learning Center. I was able to provide dental screenings to the students in addition to applying 5% Fluoride Varnish. I was also involved in educating the students in oral health, nutritional guidance and debunking myths associated with dental care among this population.
- In November 2017, my graduating class and faculty members participated in volunteering at the 2017 Greater New York Smiles Children’s Program at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. At this event over 500 students per day visited from New York City’s Public Schools around the five boroughs. We were scheduled in different sections delivering oral health education and providing free dental screenings in a mobile clinic. I was stationed at the Nutrition table, where we started by performing an educational song related to nutrition followed by creating awareness in identifying healthy and non healthy food choices.
- In November 2017 New York City College of Technology held an open house. I volunteered to help the Dental Hygiene Department during the open house and in return I received an email of appreciation by a faculty member.
- In August 2017 I was one of the few students who volunteered their time at the freshman orientation. It was a pleasure to help ease the anxiety of the new students entering the dental hygiene program.
- In April 2012, I volunteered at one of my children’s school to be a part of Career Day. I provided a short presentation of the requirements needed to become a Certified Dental Assistant. In addition, I provided verbal and written oral health education. Through a sponsor I was able to provide free toothbrushes. Since then I am invited every year to participate. Soon Career Day will be a presentation of how I became a Dental Hygienist.
